Morphology and Imaging Core

The Neuroscience Morphology and Imaging Core is a research project-oriented core laboratory rather than a fee-for-service facility. Besides maintaining shared resources, we provide:

• Consultation for design of imaging experiments
• Training graduate students
• Training for postdoctoral fellows and new staff to independently operate stereo, bright-field, epi-fluorescence and laser scanning microscopes
• Help with analysis of image data, trouble-shooting, and improved image quality

The intensive collaboration with faculty members has been focused on understanding the structural dynamics of the neuron and synapse. We are specialized in ultrastructural studies and immuno-electron microscopy in the central nervous system and actively pursue EM projects that aim to visualize three-dimensional structure at the native state. Currently, we conduct experiments utilizing advanced techniques such as high pressure freezing and electron tomography. 

Collaboration

We generally collaborate in the following two areas:

• Examining protein distribution in neuronal culture or brain tissue at light microscopy level, using wide-field fluorescence/deconvolution microscopy, confocal imaging, and quantitative image analysis.
• Performing conventional/immuno electron microscopy to visualize subcellular ultrastructure and detailed protein localization. The information obtained is often correlated with findings from fluorescence imaging studies.